Vitiligo means that skin loses its color. You have noticed the white and smooth patches on the skin. This generally happens on the neck, face, and forearms. You may be amazed that it has affected 1% of the population. The treatment is available for changes in skin tone as well. Let's dive into the topic deeper to find the causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
| Causes | Autoimmune disorder, genetic factors, environmental triggers |
|---|---|
| Remedies | Cosmetics, depigmentation, skin grafting |
| Preventive Options | Protect skin from sun, manage stress, avoid chemicals |
| Treatment Options | Topical corticosteroids, phototherapy, excimer laser therapy |
| Specialist | Plastic Surgeon |
Vitiligo is a condition in which skin loses its pigments. This causes the skin to become lighter than its natural tone. The area which loses color is called macules. The size may vary according to the person. This happens because our immune system starts destroying the melanocytes responsible for our skin color. They produce melanin which gives the skin color or pigmentation. It mainly affects people with low immunity or autoimmune disorders like Addison's disease, anemia, diabetes, and lupus.
In addition, it starts slowly and gradually, beginning with hands, forearms, feet, and face. It also develops in the mouth, nose, genital, and rectal areas. The larger patches start to spread, widen and become larger over time. It also depends upon the person what type of vitiligo he or she is having. This decides the proper treatment.
If you are looking for the signs and symptoms of vitiligo, then you may see there are no specific other symptoms other than the skin's physical appearance in the following.
1. Skin patches or mucous membranes that start to lose color. You may see the white or lighter skin loses its natural tone.
2. Hair patches on the scalp and eyebrow
3. Swelling in the eye
4. Inflamed ear
You may see these symptoms on hands, feet, arms, face, mucous membrane, and genitals. This is evidence that people who develop vitiligo have low esteem.
There is only one type of vitiligo, which is characterized by loss of pigment in the skin. However, there are different patterns and variations of vitiligo are given in the following.
| Vitiligo | Description |
| Segmental vitiligo | It affects one side of the body |
| Non-segmental vitiligo | Characterized by patches of depigmented skin |
| Universal vitiligo | Affects the entire body that, includes the face, trunk, arms |
| Focal vitiligo | Small, scattered patches of depigmented skin may appear |
| Mucosal vitiligo | Affects mucous membranes of the body, like lips and mouth |
| Mixed vitiligo | Combination of both segmental and non-segmental vitiligo |
Other types of vitiligo are mentioned below. These are generalized in which the macules appear in various body parts. Another is a trichome in which white color appears in the center. This is often called bullseye.
Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition that causes loss of skin color in patches. It may be associated with other medical conditions that affect the immune system or the skin. Here are some such conditions are given in the following.
This is a disorder that affects the adrenal glands, which produce hormones that regulate metabolism, blood pressure and stress response. People with Addison’s disease may have low levels of cortisol and aldosterone, which can cause fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure and darkening of the skin.
This is a condition that affects how the body uses glucose (sugar) for energy. People with diabetes may have high levels of glucose in their blood, which can damage various organs and tissues. Diabetes can also affect the skin by causing dryness, itching, infections or poor wound healing.
This is a condition that causes hair loss in patches on the scalp or other parts of the body. It occurs when the immune system attacks hair follicles, which are responsible for producing hair. Alopecia areata can affect anyone at any age, but it often starts in childhood or adolescence.
This is a type of anemia that occurs when the body cannot absorb enough vitamin B12 from food. Vitamin B12 is essential for making red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. People with pernicious anemia may have symptoms such as weakness, pale skin, numbness or tingling in their hands and feet.
These are conditions that affect how much thyroid hormone is produced by the thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism, growth and development. Thyroid disorders can be either hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone) or hyperthyroidism (high thyroid hormone). They can cause symptoms such as weight changes, mood swings, fatigue or changes in skin texture.
This is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on various parts of the body. It occurs when skin cells grow too fast and pile up on the surface of the skin. Psoriasis can be triggered by stress, infections or medications.
The diagnosis of vitiligo is usually based on the skin's characteristic appearance and the patient's medical history. However, a dermatologist may perform certain diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions. Some common tests include in the following.
Vitiligo treatment has multiple way, including medications, surgery, and home remedies. Each treatment option has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the best course of action will depend on the underlying cause and individual health needs.
Here are some medications used in the treatment of vitiligo
Protopic is a topical medication that is used to suppress the immune system in the affected area. It is commonly used in the treatment of vitiligo as it helps to stop the autoimmune response that causes the condition.
Elidel is another topical medication that is similar to Protopic, and it works by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system in the affected area. It has been shown to be effective in treating vitiligo in some cases.
Xeljanz is an oral medication that is used to treat autoimmune disorders by suppressing the immune system. While it was originally approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, it has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of vitiligo.
Methoxsalen is a medication that is used in combination with light therapy to treat vitiligo. It works by making the skin more sensitive to ultraviolet light, which helps to stimulate the production of melanin.
Calcipotriene is a synthetic form of vitamin D that is used in the treatment of psoriasis, but it has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of vitiligo. It works by helping to regulate the growth and differentiation of skin cells, which can help to restore pigmentation.
Surgery may be an option for people with stable vitiligo, which means that the condition is no longer spreading. Here are two types of surgery that may be used to treat vitiligo
In skin grafting, a piece of skin with normal pigmentation is taken from one part of the body and transplanted to the affected area. This can be an effective treatment for small areas of vitiligo. However, it may not be suitable for larger areas, as it can cause scarring and may not match the texture or color of the surrounding skin.
Blister grafting involves creating blisters on the skin using heat or suction. The top of the blister is then removed, and the underlying pigmented skin is transplanted to the affected area. This method can be more effective than skin grafting, as it results in less scarring and can be used for larger areas of vitiligo.
While there is no cure for vitiligo, some people may find relief from the symptoms by using home remedies. Here are a few options
Wearing sunscreen can help to protect the skin from sun damage, which can worsen the symptoms of vitiligo. It's important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and to reapply it every two hours.
Aloe vera is a plant with anti-inflammatory properties, and it may help to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation caused by vitiligo. Apply fresh aloe vera gel to the affected area and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before washing it off.
Turmeric is a spice with anti-inflammatory properties, and it may help to reduce inflammation in the skin. Mix turmeric powder with water to create a paste, apply it to the affected area, and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before washing it off.
Ginger is another spice with anti-inflammatory properties, and it may help to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Drink ginger tea or apply fresh ginger juice to the affected area and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before washing it off.
While there is no known cure for vitiligo, there are several ways to prevent the condition or minimize its impact. Here are some ways to prevent vitiligo
Sunburn and other types of skin damage can increase the risk of developing vitiligo, so it's important to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and hats, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Exposure to certain chemicals and toxins, such as industrial chemicals and pesticides, may increase the risk of developing vitiligo. Avoid exposure to these substances as much as possible, and follow safety guidelines when working with chemicals or using pesticides.
Stress has been linked to the onset and worsening of vitiligo. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to help manage stress and minimize its impact on the body.
A healthy diet can help to support the immune system and prevent the onset or worsening of vitiligo. Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help to catch and treat any health problems early, which may help to prevent the onset or worsening of vitiligo. Be sure to schedule regular appointments with a healthcare provider and follow their recommendations for preventive care.
Vitiligo is a condition in which the skin loses its natural pigment, resulting in white patches on the skin. If you have vitiligo, here are some instances when you should see a doctor are given in the following.
While there is no cure for vitiligo, treatment options are available to help manage the condition and improve the appearance of the affected skin. If you want to explore treatment options, it is important to see a doctor or dermatologist specializing in treating vitiligo.
If you have vitiligo and are concerned about your health, it is important to seek immediate medical attention from a qualified vitiligo doctor. A doctor specializing in treating vitiligo, such as a Plastic Surgeon, would be the right health professional to consult.
Here is a list of Top verified doctors for vitiligo. You can book an appointment with one to start your vitiligo treatment today.
Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Sarita Vihar, Delhi NCR
Rs. 1,500 Consult Fees
Senior Consultant - Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery
Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Alwarpet, Chennai
SIMS Hospitals, Vadapalani, Chennai
A hospital can provide various services to help diagnose and treat your vitiligo. If you are experiencing vitiligo In that case, it is important to visit a vitiligo hospital for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Check a list of Top Hospitals for vitiligo treatment.
Multi Speciality Hospital
Established in 1918
🛌345 Beds
5+ Doctors 
Multi Speciality Hospital
Established in 1940
🛌220 Beds
5+ Doctors 
Super Speciality Hospital
Established in 1950
🛌350 Beds
5+ Doctors Frequently asked questions and answers about vitiligo.
What is vitiligo caused by?
Vitiligo is caused by the loss of melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, autoimmune, and environmental factors.
Where does vitiligo usually start?
Vitiligo usually starts as small, pale patches on the skin that gradually become larger and more widespread over time. The patches can occur anywhere on the body, but often appear on the face, hands, and feet.
Can vitiligo go away?
No. While there is currently no cure for vitiligo, treatment options such as topical corticosteroids, light therapy, and skin grafting can help improve the appearance of affected areas. In some cases, spontaneous repigmentation may occur, but this is unpredictable and cannot be relied upon as a form of treatment.
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